Miss A Columnist

Yolonda Faulkner was the Director of Public Affairs for Perennial Strategy Group and the Director of Public Relations for Perennial Sports and Entertainment. In this role she was responsible for coordinating the external communication plans for the Strategy Group’s clients as well as planning and executing the community and media outreach plan for more than 30 professional athletes.

Ms. Faulkner’s career began in Virginia Tech’s Athletic Department as a student assistant in the Sports Information office. She then worked for the St. Louis Rams, New York Giants and Washington Redskins’ PR departments as well as with the NFL’s PR team for Super Bowls XL and XLV. After moving to D.C., Faulkner worked as a public relations consultant for nonprofit organizations, small businesses and political campaigns.

In addition to her work experience, Ms. Faulkner stays connected to the community through her work with Positive Choices, Inc. and her church, Alfred Street Baptist Church. She lives in Alexandria, VA.

Pierre Garcon, the 26-year old wide receiver for the Washington Redskins, was all smiles at his sold-out Inaugural All-White Charity Event. Last night’s rain didn’t stop this invite-only cocktail reception, which was originally supposed to be held at the Millennium Building’s rooftop. Instead guests, who all donned the suggested white, mingled with Garcon’s teammates, as well as former players, including running back Clinton Portis and Mayor of DC, Vincent Gray. The passed appetizers were a huge hit and included fillet minion, goat cheese pastries and tuna tartar.

This event raised more than $30,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (BGCGW). Terri Johnson, Director of Special Events for BGCGW said, “We are so excited to work with Pierre. This was completely his idea, including the white theme. He wanted to do something special and support the clubs that are doing so much for DC-area youth.”

In addition to Garcon coming up with the theme, he also ensured that his teammates would arrive on time and dressed appropriately. He paid for the entire team to be fitted for white tuxedos and arranged for a shuttle bus that made the more than hour trip from the Redskins facility in Ashburn, VA to Downtown DC. Garcon said, “It feels great to have so many of my teammates here supporting a great cause. I am proud to be able to support an organization that is doing so much to support the next generation. I wouldn’t be here today without the Boys & Girls club that I was a member of.”

With more than 30 teammates in attendance, Garcon knew what to do to motivate them to attend. However, all of them were more than happy to support him and the great cause. Darryl Tapp, new to the Redskins this season, said, “I am happy to support one of my new teammates. The entire team has been so welcoming and I know they will be just as supportive when I hold my own charity events soon.”

(Photo Credit: Joseph Allen Images)

The night ended at the new Look Restaurant and Lounge with casino tables, a live auction of signed Redskins memorabilia and Game 1 of the NBA Finals on hologram screens. Other Redskins spotted at the event were quarterback Robert Griffin III, running back Alfred Morris, defensive end Chris Baker and wide receiver Josh Morgan. Also in attendance was BGCGW CEO, Pandit Wright and NFLPA Executive Director, DeMaurice Smith.